TEAM HERALD
MARGAO: Citizens of Cuncolim on Monday commemorated the 430th anniversary of the historic revolt of 1583 against the Portuguese, with San Andre MLA Vishnu Surya Wagh pledging to continue his efforts for the inclusion of the Cuncolim revolt in the school history books.
The MLA also questioned the rationale behind holding the ensuing Lusofonia Games in Goa when the state is part of India and is no more a Portuguese-speaking country. Wagh warned that he would continue to oppose the game notwithstanding his government’s involvement in hosting the games.
Speaking at a function organised by the Cuncolim Chieftains Memorial Trust to commemorate the 1583 revolt at Cuncolim on Monday, the San Andre MLA said the sacrifices made by the valiant and brave men of Cuncolim should not go waste. “The 1583 Cuncolim revolt was the first revolt against a colonial power not only in India, but in entire Asia. People of Cuncolim had started the non-cooperation movement against the Portuguese around 400 years before Mahatma Gandhi started his movement,” Wagh recalled.
Local MLA Rajan Naik said that Cuncolim has carved a place in the history of Goa’s freedom fight due to the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters.
In his address, former MP Ramakant Angle said he felt honoured by the Cuncolim Bushan award presented to him by the Cuncolim Chieftains Memorial Trust. “As a Cuncolkar I feel honoured to receive the award in my home village,” he said.
The Cuncolim Shree award was presented posthumously to late Mario Vaz, while educationist Subhash Velingkar was awarded the Friend of Cuncolim award. In the meanwhile, CM told media persons today that his government was fully committed to fulfill the demand of the people of Cuncolim.
